Headlining The Ultimate Fighter Season 18 finale this weekend is a closely-handicapped Lightweight rematch between two of the top-ranked fighters in the division. Gray Maynard edged out Nate Diaz in a close split decision when they headlined a UFC Fight Night card in 2010, and he is currently a slim -135 Sportsbook favorite to pick up a victory once again on Saturday night.
Both fighters need a win to remain relevant in the division, and of the two Diaz is the more evolved fighter since their last meeting. Action on Diaz as the +115 Sportsbook underdog looks like it is worth the risk, especially if he utilizes his boxing skills to keep Maynard at a distance while they’re standing.
If you like Diaz in this fight the Sportsbook +335 Diaz wins by decision prop option looks to have some great value.
The Ultimate Fighter 18 Finale will also feature a couple of closely-handicapped Featherweight fights. Former World Submission champion Rani Yahya is a slim -130 favorite at Sportsbook to beat Tom Niinimaki, who will currently pay +110 for the upset.
Niinimaki will be making his UFC debut riding an 11-fight win streak and could use his elite boxing skills to beat down his opponent, as long as he stays off his back at all costs. Any amount of time on the ground with Yahya could easily result in a fast submission loss.
The other TUF 18 Finale Featherweight fight will feature Akira Corassani against former Pancrase Lightweight champion Maximo Blanco. Blanco will hold an edge in grappling and is currently listed as the -165 favorite at Sportsbook. Corassani has two wins since entering the UFC and will look to keep his momentum rolling as the +145 underdog.
